Isola Del Nord (Belfry Branch) — Restaurant in Xi'an

A restaurant that must be treasured as a secret but also opened up for others to frequent and savour its delectable menu.

I got lost and almost gave up on finding the restaurant (blame Google maps not working in China) but also can’t blame Google maps as the location of this restaurant is inside a warehouse like building on the 11th floor.

Ambiance is very inviting. The place is well appointed. Wine selection was great (although it was Spanish and needs to be Italian), warm bread with olive oil - a trademark of good Italian restaurants - was served first with an offer for another serving that is always appreciated.

Menu had a range of pastas, appetisers, pizzas and deserts. Just a tad disappointed there was no ravioli or risotto which marks a restaurant standard higher.

I did spot a gnocchi but settled for aglio olio pasta, my companion had the pesto pasta. Dessert was a tiramisu and an absolutely divine chocolate pudding with raspberry sorbet. The sweet and tart combo was 10 on 10.

Service is very courteous and when I asked for some bread to mop up the garlicky olive oil from my pasta, I saw a sparkle in the waitress’ eyes. That told me, she likes to see her customers enjoy the creations a la Italia.

All in all a perfect evening. Find it or hide it - you...

Ultimate guide how to save 20 mins and proceed directly to the restaurant:

The entrance is from from Beida street, not Xihuamen ave or Bajia lane. The pass looks like a car parking entrance. You need to go there. It’s between a fire service and an office building. Enter the building on the left from parking entrance. Go straight to the elevator zone. Take 11th floor. Go to the very end of a corridor, the restaurant will be on the left. You are in.

The food is tasty, prices are reasonable, the service is good and personnel speaks English (but sometimes misunderstandings...

This great place must be cherished ; food is great, and the service is flawless. If, like us, you need a break from chinese food, this is the right place. As stated by others, follow google instructions until you reach ICBC. Once on Xihuamen road, head into the alley between ICBC and the fire station: It kinda looks like a parking, but it's the right way. Enter the building and head to the 11th floor. Follow the sign, and you will arrive at a very unexpected and...